Blood in urine: causes and solutions

Written in association with: Mr Arun Jain
Published: | Updated: 22/10/2024
Edited by: Jessica Wise

There are a couple of things that you might expect to see in the toilet bowl after nature calls, but blood is not one of them (unless you’re menstruating, but that’s a different context). When blood is in the urine, it is called haematuria, and it could be a sign of a serious issue somewhere along the urinary system, which is comprised of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. We spoke to a leading urologist, Mr Arun Jain, about what blood in urine might signify, and what you should do.

 

 

What is haematuria?

Urine should normally be clear, yellow or pale, but when blood is in the urine it will become pink, red, or brown, depending on the amount of blood. There are instances where the blood may not be visible with the naked eye but is still present and can only be detected using a dipstick test or under microscope.

Leading causes of haematuria are:

  • urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • kidney, ureter or bladder stones
  • enlarged prostate (in men only)
  • cancer of the kidney, ureter or bladder
  • injury

 

When should I be concerned about blood in urine?

Causes of haematuria tend to be usually benign, however, up to one in five cases with visible haematuria can be related to an underlying cancer. The risk of an underlying cancer is higher in those who are older than 45, a smoker, or have a family history of kidney cancer. So, it is important to consult with a doctor or urologist for appropriate investigation. Unless you have been recently investigated and any significant underlying cause has been excluded or you have undergone a surgical procedure and blood in urine was expected, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you notice any visible blood in urine.

 

How is haematuria diagnosed and treated?

A thorough diagnostic process will involve laboratory testing of the urine, blood tests, CT scans or other form of imaging to look for abnormalities in the urinary system, or using a small camera to assess the condition of the bladder and urethra.

The treatment for haematuria will depend on the underlying cause. In most patients the bleeding stops spontaneously but has a tendency to recur. Increasing intake of water can help to ease or stop the bleeding. If bleeding is profuse, you are passing clots, or have associated difficulty in passing urine, then you should report to the nearest accident & emergency department.

Infections can be managed with antibiotic prescriptions. For enlarged prostate, there are medications and a variety of minimally-invasive surgeries available, such as TURP, RezumTM and laser surgeries to reduce its size and thereby treat haematuria. Some kidney and bladder stones can pass spontaneously but surgical treatment or shockwave therapy (ESWL) may be necessary for large stones. Most early cancers are curable with minimally invasive surgical treatment options.

Drinking enough water daily helps to minimise the risk of UTIs and kidney stones. Stopping smoking can also reverse the increased risk of cancer over time in smokers.

 

If you have encountered blood in your urine, or have concerns regarding your urinary tract, you can consult  with Mr Jain via his Top Doctors profile.

By Mr Arun Jain
Urology

Mr Arun Jain is a highly experienced consultant urological surgeon based in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. He specialises in management of benign prostate disorders (BPH), urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary stones, scrotal swellings, prostate cancer and erectile disorders. Mr Jain has expertise in Rezum procedure for prostate enlargement, cystoscopic procedures, , laser treatment of stones, robotic kidney surgery and screening of prostate, kidney and bladder cancer. Mr Jain brings a wealth of expertise to his practice, ensuring comprehensive care for his patients.
 
Mr Jain graduated with an MBBS from the University of Delhi in 1990, followed by an MS in general surgery in 1994 and FRCS in 1999. He further advanced his academic credentials with an MPhil from the University of Bradford in 2007. In the same year, he achieved fellowship in Urology from the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow (FRCS urology). He is on Specialist Register of GMC for urology surgery. His extensive training includes completing general surgery training in India, followed by urology training in the United Kingdom, equipping him with a robust foundation in both general and specialised surgical practices.
 
Mr Jain's career includes a significant tenure as clinical director of urology at Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust (now part of Northern Care Alliance Foundation NHS Trust) from 2011 to 2018. His leadership in this role highlights his dedication to advancing urological services and patient centred care.
 
Mr Jain is an active member of several prestigious medical organisations, including the British Association of Urological Surgeons, the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Glasgow, and the British Medical Association.

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